In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being in him was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light. The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world came into being through him; yet the world did not know him. He came to what was his own, and his own people did not accept him. But to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God, who were born, not of blood or of the will of the flesh or of the will of man, but of God. And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth. (John testified to him and cried out, ‘This was he of whom I said, “He who comes after me ranks ahead of me because he was before me.” ’) From his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. The law indeed was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God. It is God the only Son, who is close to the Father’s heart, who has made him known. John 1:1-18
It was a full Sunday. We went to the Cathedral for a wonderful worship service. We got there early and were led in by a side entrance. Before everyone arrived I had time to look around and observe. It was quite awhile before the bishops filed in around me. I watched the stewards and the other cathedral personnel, the back stage crew as it were, making everything ready. The unseen people who really make the event happen. I have encountered many delightful folks here, the unsung heroes, who make us all function. From the chef in the kitchen to the servers and constables, they all testify in their actions to the love of God made real. No sermon or choir can top their love made visible.
Loving Creator, you gave us you Word
he dwelt among us and dwells with us still
in the quiet service and gentle smiles
of those who live their lives to serve.
Help us to receive grace upon grace
as we follow the example of your Son
who offered his life for the life of all
sharing your love as we serve others. Amen.
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